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Jolida 302B/502B?

Hi,

I've recently decided to get into tube sound and have been told that Jolida is the way to go for a 2500 dollar system.

I am purchasing Spendor 3/5 (or 3/1) speakers when I find a good deal on them. I have tested them (with the 302B) and really like the airy midrange and smooth sound. I listen to classical, classic rock, and eclectic rock (less bass, more vocals). All of which I tested with this setup.

Now my question is: which amp would be better for my situation both musically and financially? Should I try and purchase one which is modded or not?

Also, I am looking at CD players and have been looking formost at the Jolida 100A. Is it worth it to buy the upgraded version? Why do people say you have to have the power supply replaced professionally?

I have pretty much decided on anticables for the speaker connection, but what would you recommend for interconnects?

I appreciate your help in advance.
jclarka
sufentanil's avatar
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sufentanil
782 posts
 
Hi,

The 302b is one of the better tube amps I've heard for the money. (Indeed, I own one.) I know a dealer whose opinions I trust who says that the 502b really doesn't sound any better than the 302b. (I haven't heard the 502b myself.)

So if you've heard the 302b and like the sound, and it's less expensive, then in my mind it's a no-brainer.

I can't really comment on the Jolida CD player as I haven't spent much time listening to one.

Good luck,

Michael
robm321
932 posts
 
The Jolida 302/502 are great values. I chose to go with the ASL AQ1001DT. I liked it better than the Jolida. But it's just a preference. Jolida's make great integrated's.

The JD100 is a no brainer and will synergize with a tube amp/pre/or integrated.

I've heard the player stock and feel that any modding will lose some of the original sound - that is what makes these CD players great. I can't say from experience, but that's the impression I get. Others will probably have a better idea about this.

Good Luck and welcome to tubes. You'll find that it's a very musical sound.
ethanh
48 posts
 
The 302 and 502 use different power tubes (EL34 for the 302 and KT88/6550 I believe for the 502). Considering this if vocals are more important to you than bass the 302 ought to be a no brainer (the EL34 is typically considered the best non-SET midrange tube out there).
This said though you may want to take a look at the Prima Luna Prologue One or Two. The Prima Lunas have an auto bias feature and higher build quality than the 302 (all point to point handwiring as opposed to circuit boards for the Jolida, plus the Two can accept EL34, KT88, and 6550 type tubes). They're more expensive but may be worth it considering the higher quality. I just bought a tube integrated so I've been researching amps in this price range for the past two months.
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